Ford Ranger gets updated safety

Ford has improved the safety credentials of its top-selling Ranger ute.

The blue oval has updated its popular pick-up range with autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian detection now standard across the entire range.

The crash-avoidance technology was made available exclusively on the Ranger Wildtrak version as part of a mid-life upgrade late last year, but has now been extended to cover all 29 model variations from the entry-level, trade-spec XL right the way through to the adventure-focused Ranger Raptor.

It also brings lane keeping alert, traffic sign recognition and automatic high beams to lower-grade XL, XLS and XLT variants - elements that were already offered on the Wildtrak and Raptor - and builds on the Ranger's comprehensive suite of standard safety features which includes stability control, anti-lock brakes, trailer sway control, hill descent and hill launch assistance, full airbag coverage as well as reverse parking sensors and a rear-view camera in pick-up models.

Ford has, at the same time, made a reverse camera available as a factory fit option for cab-chassis variants that it says can be integrated into a wide variety of tray types.

Along with the additional safety, entry-level XL and XLS models have been fitted with a laminated acoustic windscreen that was already standard from the XLT variant and is aimed at reducing wind noise for improved cabin refinement, and the optional Driver Assist Technology package for the XLT, which brings adaptive cruise control and semi-automated reverse parking, has been discounted to $800 (down from $1700) as AEB is now standard.

The Ranger Raptor, meanwhile, now has eight-way power adjustable front seats as part of the upgrade too.

Ford has also re-jigged its servicing plan for Ranger owners with the first four visits, scheduled for every 12 months or 15,000km, costing $299 each.